What is SNAP?

SNAP is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly known as Food Stamps), a program designed to help people make ends meet and afford healthy food. SNAP participants receive monthly food benefits on the Montana Access debit card. (more info)

How to Apply?
Apply online, in-person, or by mail or fax at any Office of Public Assistance.

Apply Online:
Use Montana Connections to apply for SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, and Healthy Montana Kids online. A fast, easy pre-screening tool is also available.

Apply with a Paper Application:
Applications are available any Office of Public Assistance or available for download. You can also request an application in the mail from the Office of Public assistance or the Montana Food Bank Network (800-809-4752). Return paper applications to the Office of Public Assistance in-person or by mail or fax.

Locate your nearest Office of Public Assistance
Download and print MT's SNAP-only application
Download and print MT's combination SNAP, Medicaid, TANF application
Locate stores that accept SNAP in your area

What Happens Next?
When the Office of Public Assistance receives your application you will be asked to come to the office for an interview. You may be able to do your interview by phone if you are unable to come to the office. During the interview, you will go through your application with a caseworker. In addition, you will be asked for various types of documents such as: 

• Proof of your identity (driver's license, Medicare card, state ID card, etc.)
• Social Security numbers for everyone in the household (actual card usually not required)
• Verification of your rent/mortgage and utility expenses (bills, lease agreement, etc.)
• Verification of your income (pay stubs, proof of Social Security income, etc.)

For More Information:
Contact the Montana Food Bank Netowrk at 1-800-809-4752 or email snap@mfbn.org with questions or to request an application by mail. 

SNAP Income Guidelines
(Effective Oct. 1, 2011)

To qualify for SNAP, you need to meet two income guidelines:

1. The first step is meeting the Gross Guideline. If you meet this guideline, submit an application to see if you also meet the Net Guideline.        

 Household Size                    Gross Monthly Income
          1                                         $1816
          2                                         $2452
          3                                         $3090
 Add'l Members                              +$636

*Households with a previously disqualified member will need to meet a lower Gross Limit

2. When you apply, your case worker will deduct a portion of your living expenses from your income to see if you meet the Net Guideline. You cannot calculate your Net Income for SNAP without the help of a case worker.

Household Size                    Net Monthly Income
          1                                      $908
          2                                      $1226
          3                                      $1545
 Add'l Members                           +$319

RESOURCES: For most applicants, there is no longer a resource limit.

Outreach Materials for Download:
If you would prefer to receive county-specific flyers by email or snail mail, please contact Lorianne at lburhop@mfbn.org.

SNAP Outreach brochure
SNAP Outreach flyer
1/2 page SNAP handout/newsletter insert